Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I discharge more than one pack at a time
with a CamLight discharger?
We don't recommend discharging NiCd or NiMH packs in parallel (one or more
cells can be damaged), but some users have had no problem discharging multiple
packs this way. Discharging packs in series is OK as long as the number of
cells doesn't exceed the discharger's rating (10-cells or 20-cells, depending
on the model).
Can
I discharge my 36V packs with a CamLight discharger?
Right now, no. Our dischargers are rated for use with up to 12V (10-cell)
or 24V (20-cell) packs, with an absolute maximum of 16V or 35V, respectively.
Our PD-24V will be available in a semi-custom 36V (30-cell) version
Why
have 2 discharge stages?
When discharging a NiCd or NiMH battery pack, the internal resistance of the
cells causes a voltage drop that can fool a discharger or auto-cutoff switch
into turning off early, thinking that the cutoff voltage has been reached. The
higher the discharge current, the larger the voltage drop. This leaves your cells
only partially discharged.
You can get around this by using a lower discharge current level,
but the discharge will take a very long time. Or, you can try discharging
to a lower cutoff voltage but you're taking a chance with damaging
one or more cells if you go too low. 
CamLight System's Pack Dischargers solve this problem by using 2 discharge stages. A higher-current Stage-1 discharge quickly removes most of the pack's charge. This is automatically followed by a lower-current Stage-2 discharge that minimizes the effect of the cells' internal resistance on the pack's voltage. This ensures a more complete discharge and better conditions your packs while reducing the time you have to wait for the discharge to finish.
How
often should I discharge my packs?
If not being used for a couple of weeks or more, we recommend discharging
the packs before storing them.
If a pack is not being used, charge and discharge the pack 2-3 times every month
or so to keep the pack conditioned. This allows you to return the pack to use
immediately (without cycling the pack several times to recondition the cells)
and extends the life of the cells.
